Promoting Wellness

In a partnership with the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug
Dependence, the Port Jefferson School District recently hosted the first
of its Promoting Wellness – Community Forum Series.

Adam Birkenstock, a licensed clinical social worker and a representative
from LICADD, was the guest speaker. His program, “Helping Our Children
Manage Stress in the 21st Century,” addressed the important health and
well-being issues that affect many students.

The interactive evening helped parents/guardians understand their
essential roles in how to assist teens in managing and reducing stress
and anxiety. His topics included academic and social stress, stress
management, mindfulness and the impact of technology on stress.

“We are grateful for Mr. Birkenstock’s shared expertise with our school
community,” Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Principal Christine Austen
said. “As many of our students recognize that knowledge is power, this
partnership is an opportunity for further community engagement in their
well-being.”

The next event in the proactive series will be “The Ugly Truth,” a
powerful presentation about the opioid epidemic presented by the Suffolk
County Police Department. It will be held on Monday, Nov. 26 in the Port Jefferson Middle School Multipurpose Room at 6:30 p.m.